A Sui Generis Competition Law Framework for Sri Lanka based on the Development Dimension

Sri Lanka’s lack of a comprehensive competition law has significant real-world implications, particularly evident in sectors such as telecommunications, where limited competition results in poor service quality and diminished consumer protection. This paper argues that the absence of an effective competition framework is not merely a regulatory oversight but a key contributor to market failures and widespread consumer dissatisfaction. Presently, competition-related provisions in Sri Lanka are fragmented across more than 37 statutes, creating a disjointed and ineffective regulatory landscape. This paper explores the urgent need for a unified and robust competition law by examining the economic and regulatory consequences of the current framework. It traces the evolution of Sri Lanka’s competition legislation, highlights systemic deficiencies, and analyzes how these gaps hinder market efficiency and consumer welfare. Drawing on international best practices, the paper offers tailored recommendations to consolidate dispersed legal provisions into a single, enforceable framework. These proposals aim to strengthen regulatory institutions, promote fair competition, and ensure consumer protection—essential steps for supporting sustainable economic development in Sri Lanka.